Our Favorite Gardens on Kauai

With the age and wisdom of nearly 6 millions years, Kauai Island is the oldest of the eight major Hawaiian Islands. Once a formidable active volcano, the land mass of Kauai was twice as large and 3,000 feet taller than it is today. Over time, the raw and uninhabitable environment transformed into the gentle, lush paradise we now know as “The Garden Island.”

The geographic maturity of Kauai is what makes it so special. Only after millions of years of unfathomable influences is an island so beautiful created. The dense volcanic rock has softened into fertile soil. The jagged cliff features have molded into breath-taking monuments. And millennia’s worth of coral and crustaceans have surrendered to the sedimentary nature of the sea; forming the irresistible white sand beaches that Kauai is famous for.

With all the elements at play, Kauai has developed into one of the most beautiful places on earth. And, in tandem, thousands of unique and exotic plant species have contributed its the botanical allure. Experiencing the rich essence of the Garden Isle is a must. And, the best way to do that is by visiting one of Kauai’s esteemed Gardens.

We have highlighted five of our favorite gardens for you. Organized by location, each garden offers a unique view into the world of plants, history, conservation, and what makes Kauai special.

Gardens on the South Shore

Allerton National Tropical Botanical Garden

Located right across from Spouting Horn in Poipu, Allerton Garden has a long history of royal, agricultural and artistic influence. Once a retreat for Queen Emma, you can still see some of the plants she established. Named one of the ‘50 Places of a Lifetime,’ by National Geographic Traveler, a guided tour offers a refined botanical experience.

Guided Tour is 2.5 hours. Ticket cost is $50 for adults, $25 for children (6-12) and free for children 5 and under.

Sunset Guided Tour is 3 hours. Ticket cost is $95 for adults, $45 for children (6-12) and free for children 5 and under.

McBryde National Tropical Botanical Garden

Kauai Farmacy is a botanical sanctuary hidden within the jungle of the North Shore. With a focus on medicinal herbs and using plants-as-medicine, Kauai Farmacy is a revolutionary example of alternative gardening practices and a true seed-to-cup operation. A team of herbalist, gardeners and specialists maintain the gardens and then create medicine from the thriving plants. You can immerse yourself in the empowering realm of herbal realities on an experiential tour or peacefully enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea at their stylish Tea Lanai.

The Tea Lanai is open from 10AM to 3PM Mondaythrough Friday. Enjoy a personal tea service, try all of their boutique products and receive one-on-one guidance for any of your questions.

Guided tours are Wednesday and Friday 10-12 and cost $45 for adults, $10 for children and infants are free.

Gardens on the North Shore

Kauai Farmacy Herbal Tea Gardens

Lying adjacent to Allerton Gardens, McBryde offers the freedom of a self-guided tour within the same magical valley. The benefit is starting and finishing as it fits into your schedule and a cheaper ticket cost.

Self-Guided Tour ticket cost is $30 for adults, $15 for children (6-12) and free for children 5 and under.

South Shore Combination Tour
Experience the best of both Allerton and McBryde Gardens! This guided tour gives you a taste of both grounds and highlights what makes them both special. A great choice for those who can’t decide!

Guided Tour is 2.5 hours. Ticket cost is $60 for adult, $30 for children (6-12) and free for children under 5.

Kauai Mini Golf & Botanical Gardens

For those that wish to see and learn about Kauai’s nature, but don’t want the structure of a tour, the Mini Golf and community park in Kilauea could be perfect for you! An entertaining and fun mini golf course is tastefully landscaped with important plants and includes educational signs along the way. Great for families and people of all ages!

Limahuli Garden and Preserve

Close to the end of the road, Limahuli Garden is the most secluded and example of beauty and conservation on Kauai. The 17-acre terraced garden is woven together by a marked pathway that you can experience for yourself or follow a guided tour along. Limahuli emphasizes endemic and “canoe” plants, while creatively depicting the history of native Hawaiians living off the land.

Self-guided tours are open Tuesday-Saturday and ticket cost is $20 for adults and free for children 17 and younger.